Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking premium comfort, performance, and advanced features in an SUV, with an emphasis on off-road capability (though often used as a luxury family vehicle).
Key Competitors:
BMW X5, Audi Q7, Lexus RX, Porsche Cayenne, Volvo XC90.
Powertrain Options:
Available with various V6 and V8 gasoline engines, and diesel engines in certain markets. Known for robust 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
Suspension Options:
AIRMATIC air suspension system offering adjustable ride height and damping characteristics.
Interior Appointments:
High-quality materials, comfortable seating, advanced infotainment (COMAND system), and ample cargo space.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs compared to dealership service, while ensuring proper upkeep of a complex luxury vehicle.
Engine System:
Detailed coverage for all engine variants including maintenance, diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures.
Transmission System:
Comprehensive coverage for automatic transmission service, repair, and diagnosis, including torque converter, valve body, and mechatronics.
Drivetrain:
Service and repair procedures for 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints.
Suspension Steering:
Detailed information on air suspension (AIRMATIC), independent suspension components, steering rack, power steering system, and alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Coverage for ABS, ESP, SBC (if applicable to 2011 MY), brake pad replacement, rotor servicing, brake fluid service, and hydraulic system diagnostics.
Electrical Electronics:
Extensive coverage of body control modules (BCM), engine control modules (ECM), CAN bus systems, lighting, power accessories, instrument cluster, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
HVAC:
Service and repair for climate control system, A/C compressor, refrigerant recharge, blower motor, and climate control module.
Fuel System:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulation, and evaporative emissions control (EVAP).
Exhaust System:
Information on catalytic converters, mufflers, oxygen sensors, and emissions control components.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan, and coolant specifications and service procedures.
Body Interior:
Panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, seat adjustment, interior trim, and glass replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic charts, troubleshooting symptom guides, using diagnostic scan tools, interpreting sensor data.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, illustrated repair instructions for all major and minor components and systems.
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and critical measurements.
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing common wear items such as brake pads, rotors, belts, hoses, sensors, and more.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting procedures for electrical faults.
Software Updates Coding:
Procedures for updating control module software and basic coding procedures (requires specialized tools not included in manual).
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complex component replacement and diagnostics, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Engine Type Example:
For the 2011 model year, common engines include the 3.5L V6 (ML350) and the 4.6L V8 (ML550).
Ml350 Horsepower:
ML350 (2011): Approximately 268 hp @ 6000 rpm
Ml350 Torque:
ML350 (2011): Approximately 258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm
Ml550 Horsepower:
ML550 (2011): Approximately 382 hp @ 6000 rpm
Ml550 Torque:
ML550 (2011): Approximately 391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Direct Injection (DI) in later iterations, Port Injection for 2011 models.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended).
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation System) with a central display, AM/FM/CD/DVD player, SiriusXM satellite radio, and optional Harman Kardon surround sound.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional features could include DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control), PARKTRONIC (parking sensors), rearview camera, and bi-xenon headlamps with adaptive lighting.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling, optional Media Interface for iPod/USB connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions, as indicated by the 'Service A' or 'Service B' prompts on the dashboard.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Mercedes-Benz historically recommended 'lifetime' fluid for the 722.9 transmission, but independent servicing often advises fluid and filter changes every 50,000-70,000 miles to ensure longevity. Manual will provide official recommendation.
Brake Fluid Service:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Specification:
Mobil 1 Synthetic Formula M 5W-40 or equivalent meeting MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB-Approval 236.14 (for 722.9 7G-TRONIC PLUS). Earlier 722.9 transmissions may use 236.12.
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB 325.0), typically a blue coolant.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0).
Common Issues 1:
AIRMATIC suspension leaks (air springs, compressor, lines), potential failure of the Transfer Case Actuator, camshaft position sensors failure, oil cooler leaks, and transmission conductor plate issues.
Common Issues 2:
Sagging headliner, failure of the electronic parking brake actuator, blower motor resistor issues, and potential issues with the COMAND infotainment system.
Brand Philosophy:
Mercedes-Benz is renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and durability, often setting benchmarks in automotive technology.
W164 Introduction:
The W164 chassis replaced the W163 M-Class and was introduced for the 2006 model year. The 2011 model represents the final year of this generation before the W166 successor.
W164 Facelift:
The W164 received a significant facelift for the 2009 model year, which included updated styling, new engine options, and revised interior trim.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at the Mercedes-Benz Tuscaloosa plant in Alabama, USA.
Award Example:
The ML Class W164 generation received various accolades for its blend of luxury, performance, and utility, often praised for its comfortable ride and capable 4MATIC system.
Insurance Institute Highway Safety:
The W164 generally performed well in IIHS crash tests, achieving 'Good' ratings in frontal and side impact tests for its era.
European New Car Assessment Programme:
Likely received a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, reflecting its robust safety structure and features.
